Hi everybody.

Yes that's me in the photo now doing my last job on the railway as I am getting past throwing big hammers at things and digging holes for other people to fill. Mind you I hope to be coming to the railway for many more years.

The problem is that there are too many volunteers getting to my age, and we need younger people to come forward to help run things.

Can you paint or hold a paintbrush? We need you to help keep the railway looking nice for the customer. Nothing looks worse than a load of old tat!!

Gardeners are always needed to keep the platforms looking good, and to raise the ambience of the place.

If you are in need of some physical exercise George will always throw you a spade and show you where to dig that very large hole. I have worked with George for 20 years and had a great time and made some good friends.The shed always need people to get mucky and learn about engines so that they can progress through the ranks and one day become a driver. Carpenters and plumbers to the carriage shed please!!  We also need people to run the stations and to be on the trains, so if you feel that you can get on with people, sign up now!!

We will be having a Volunteers weekend next year [2011] so look out for news in the Express. If after this you can't wait that long contact me on 01738 620894 or E. mail. richardandles@yahoo.co.uk, or phone Alisdair McLeod.

Looking forward to hearing from you.

Richard Walker.

SPEY LODGE

For many members of the railway, the relatively remote location of the line can be off-putting if you are contemplating coming to Aviemore for a working stint. Many of you will be aware of Spey Lodge, the Strathspey Railway’s hostel at Aviemore, but you may not be aware the the lodge has been refurbished over the last couple of years to a high standard. The lodge with its centrally heated rooms, new fully fitted kitchen, washing machine, dryer plus lounge with Satellite TV, offers a home from home for members while helping out,and, at only £5 per night, is very fabulous value.

Contact Richard Walker on 01738 620894 or e-mail him at richardandles@yahoo.co.uk to check on availability of our accommodation.

Spey Lodge is accessed via Dalfaber Road and then on to Dalnabay which in turn takes one through the Silverglades housing scheme to access the track leading to Aviemore Sheds and Spey Lodge.